Can GM Arjun Erigaisi Overcome GM Levon Aronian in Round 5 of FIDE World Cup 2025?
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Synopsis
In an exciting fifth round of the FIDE World Cup 2025 held in Panaji, GM Arjun Erigaisi and GM P Harikrishna faced off against formidable opponents, resulting in draws that keep them in contention. With only two Indian players remaining in the competition, the stakes are higher than ever as they vie for the prestigious Viswanathan Anand Trophy.
Key Takeaways
- GM Arjun Erigaisi and GM P Harikrishna both secured draws in Round 5.
- A total of 24 Indian players entered the FIDE World Cup 2025.
- Only two Indian players remain in contention for the title.
- Erigaisi previously defeated GM Peter Leko in rapid games.
- Praggnanandhaa's journey ended after a loss to Daniil Dubov.
Panaji, Nov 14 (NationPress) In the fifth round of the FIDE World Cup 2025, Grandmaster (GM) Arjun Erigaisi faced challenges breaking through GM Levon Aronian’s defenses, resulting in an unyielding draw. Meanwhile, GM P Harikrishna concluded his game swiftly with a draw. Playing as white, Arjun was unable to capitalize on a slight edge in the double rook endgame, leading to a split after 41 moves.
Prior to this encounter, Harikrishna demonstrated solid gameplay with black, ensuring that the formidable GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara had no chances to take the lead while playing white.
A total of 24 Indian players began the competition, competing against 206 players from 82 countries for the coveted Viswanathan Anand Trophy. After four rounds, only two Indian contenders remain in the pursuit of the title and a coveted spot in the Candidates tournament.
On this day, Arjun aimed to seize the advantage against the two-time champion, Aronian, with the white pieces. It appeared that Aronian was in a precarious position when he took nearly 30 minutes to execute his 21st move.
However, he managed to navigate out of danger and played securely to enter the next game with a theoretical edge as he switches to white.
Harikrishna, on the other hand, faced no such hurdles; he was thoroughly prepared for Alcantara’s strategy, leading both players swiftly to a rook-pawn endgame, where they opted for a draw after 41 moves. As of now, six of the eight matches have concluded in draws.
In previous rounds, Erigaisi triumphed over GM Peter Leko in both rapid games, while P Harikrishna capitalized on the opportunities presented to defeat GM Nils Grandelius in the second game, advancing to the pre-quarterfinals of the FIDE World Cup 2025.
Regrettably, R. Praggnanandhaa saw his journey end after a loss to former World Rapid Champion GM Daniil Dubov in round five. With Pranav V and Karthik Venkataraman also falling short in classical games during round five, three Indians entered tiebreaks, and ultimately, two advanced to the next stage.
Indian results (Round 5, Game 1):
GM Arjun Erigaisi drew with GM Levon Aronian 0.5:0.5
GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara drew with GM P Harikrishna 0.5:0.5
Point of View
It's vital to highlight the resilience of Indian players in this prestigious tournament. The draws by Grandmasters Erigaisi and Harikrishna demonstrate their strategic depth, ensuring they remain in contention for the Viswanathan Anand Trophy. Their performance emphasizes the caliber and potential of Indian chess on an international stage.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the opening game of Round 5?
GM Arjun Erigaisi and GM Levon Aronian drew their game, while GM P Harikrishna also ended in a draw with GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara.
How many Indian players are left in the FIDE World Cup 2025?
After four rounds, only two Indian players remain in the competition.
What is the significance of the Viswanathan Anand Trophy?
The Viswanathan Anand Trophy is a prestigious chess tournament that showcases top players from around the world, honoring the legendary Indian Grandmaster.
Who did Arjun Erigaisi defeat in earlier rounds?
Arjun Erigaisi won against GM Peter Leko in both rapid games prior to Round 5.
What happened to R. Praggnanandhaa in the tournament?
R. Praggnanandhaa's campaign ended after losing to former World Rapid Champion GM Daniil Dubov in the fifth round.
